How more women in AI could change the world

Have you ever wondered why so many companies program robots, virtual assistants, and AI with feminine traits? Have you ever pondered, if there were more women behind the algorithms, how AI would be different — not just vocally and aesthetically, but functionally? With Alexa, Cortana, Siri, Google Home, and most GPS systems defaulting to female, there has been plenty of speculation over the ubiquity of demure, ladylike tones emitted from the speakers of modern machines. One reason? Research has demonstrated a greater affinity for female voices on the part of men and women alike, prompting big tech companies like Amazon to opt for “Alexa” over “Alexander.” Still, it’s impossible to ignore the gendered implications at play, even if consumer demand drives such decisions. Why is the female voice pleasing in this context to begin with? Industry insiders like Jason Mars have admitted that the female AI voice plays into the familiar gender stereotypes of women as helpful, subservient, and non-threatening. This alone takes on a more sinister light when you dig a little deeper. “By codifying AI and intelligent machines as women,” an article on Villainess asserts, “we’re reinforcing our own sexism and misogyny — including toward real, human women.” Also troubling is that companies program these digital personas to remain demure when sexually “harassed.” Most notably, Amazon’s Alexa used to respond “thanks for the feedback” when addressed with derogatory remarks — hardly a harbinger of robot or female empowerment. AI itself has learned sexist behavior by amplifying biases found… [Read full story]